Deepening Self-care
Practicing self-care is a mindful journey of slowing down, tuning in to our needs, and honoring the foundation of our well-being. For various reasons, including cultural messaging, we may sideline our own needs in service to other people or projects. Part of self-care can look like addressing our beliefs about self-worth and rewriting the narrative to prioritize our well-being. When we show up for ourselves and prioritize our health and wellness, we are more resourced to show up in our relationships, work, and other areas of life.
As we begin to affirm our worthiness to be well and cared for, we create space to slow down and check-in with ourselves. Central to self-care practice is tuning in to our inner experience, noticing and acknowledging how we are feeling, and then asking ourselves what we want or need in response to that information. We can then make intentional choices to meet our wants and needs in an act of self-care. If we find ourselves looking for quick fixes, such as eating comfort foods or scrolling social media, we might consider: where in our lives do we not feel properly nourished? Any quality experience that leaves us feeling satiated, whether cooking ourselves a nutrient dense meal or spending time with people that warm our heart, is an act of self care that contributes to a balanced sense of well-being.
While wants and needs are unique to each individual person, areas of physical, emotional, mental, and social wellness are universal aspects of self-care. We can pay attention to the quality of these domains to invest in a holistic experience of well-being. Many of us live in a culture that promotes productivity to the point of ignoring our needs. Have patience and compassion with yourself as you find ways to tend to your well-being. Perhaps your practice is to remember to eat when you are hungry, make time for movement or joyful hobbies, schedule time with loved ones, or set boundaries in your relationships. By prioritizing your self-care, you can cultivate a life that is balanced, fulfilling, and aligned with your values.
